29 July 2014  Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today hailed Nicaragua's “forward-looking” energy policy as he arrived on an official visit to discuss how the United Nations and the Central American nation can work together in promoting peace and sustainable development.

“Renewable energy is important to promoting sustainable development – this is the golden thread in achieving sustainable development in the social, economic and environmental areas,” Mr. Ban noted in remarks at a press encounter with President Daniel Ortega in the capital, Managua.

During his meeting with the President, Mr. Ban praised Nicaragua’s commitment to renewable energy, taking note of the country’s goal of having 97 per cent of its energy come from renewable sources by the year 2028.

The Secretary-General and Mr. Ortega visited the Camilo Ortega Wind Park in Rivas, a project that represents almost one quarter of Nicaragua’s capacity to generate wind power. It will reduce greenhouse gas emissions – at least 100,000 tons of CO2 each year.

“Modern energy really is the key to changing people’s lives,” Mr. Ban said during his visit to the wind farm. “It can enhance the quality of life and it can effectively be used to promote human dignity. And it can also contribute to stemming violence.

“First of all, clinics and hospitals can be much more effective in saving lives. When the streets are lit, fully lit during the night, it can reduce violence against women. Children can study at night.”

The Secretary-General recalled his Sustainable Energy for All Initiative. Launched in 2011, the initiative has three goals: attain universal access by 2030; improve efficiency of energy and cut waste; and increase the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix.

In addition to the country’s efforts in the area of sustainable development, Mr. Ban noted that Nicaragua is an important Member State of the UN and has been playing a vital role for peace and development in several regional and global organizations.